Oh, Scandinavia! Travel Newsletter

The days are getting shorter but summer is still in high gear - temperatures this week, for example, are in the upper 60s to low 70s and the weather is sunny and clear.

Fall, which is just around the corner, is always a visual treat, with its changing colors and scenery. It is the perfect season to experience Scandinavia at a more leisurely pace and without the crowds. The temperatures will still be comfortable and the cultural life of the region will be in full swing.

As anyone who has been there will know, the countries of Scandinavia can be truly magical; the light, the geography, the remains of the ancient Nordic culture, and, of course, the people make it so. Now is a great time to explore the magical side of Scandinavia and take advantage of the many off-season specials.

Here's a trip I recommend for nature lovers: Travel to Iceland- it has glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, and a singular beauty you won't find anywhere else - then take a side trip to Greenland, an unspoiled destination you can explore via plane, boat, or dog sled. Greenland will appeal to the adventurer in you.

Church towers

Denmark is lovely right now: Jylland (also known as Jutland), with its long white beaches is a perfect family destination. Bornholm has its own pristine beaches, as well as a thriving artist colony, making it a lovely spot for this time of the year. Copenhagen, less than an hour away by plane, offers the excitement of Tivoli Gardens and the sophistication of a great city.

How about a wildlife tour, northern style: Sweden offers seal and beaver safaris and diving expeditions that are safe and fascinating. The capital of Stockholm, built on thirteen islands in the Baltic Sea, is best seen by boat. Just outside Stockholm is The Kingdom of Glass, where you can buy glassware and crafts from famous makers such as Orrefors, Kosta Boda, and Johansfors.

If you are sports minded, Finland could be your ideal destination. With its many lakes, it is ideal for rafting, boating, and fishing. Helsinki, the capital, is an important design center that is also rich in history and cultural interest.

If you are considering a cruise vacation, Norway, with its stunning mountains and fjords, is accessible year-round by coastal steamer and is truly, as we say, a sight for the mind. Leif Erikson, who led the first European expedition to North America, was born here. Imagine, the land of the Vikings is only a few hours away!